Former local woman and fashion design guru writes first novel

Published: August 18, 2011 1:00 PM

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Jodi Godby Wagner, author of the published novel, "Boca Girl," was born in Zanesville and graduated from John Glenn High School. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in fashion merchandising and business at the renowned Shannon Rogers and Jerry Silverman School of Fashion Design and Merchandising, the premier program in the United States.

Her career began as executive assistance to the president of Martha on Park Avenue, a couture house known as the "glamour merchant," catering to the fashion elite.

Wagner was involved in every aspect of retail administration, including the purchase of merchandise, public relations, advertising and design, concept and designer development.

Within a few short years, she was recruited by Conde Nast publications for the position of merchandising editor for Glamour magazine. At the magazine she developed, sold, produced and hosted the magazine's nationwide fashion retail events.

Wagner has produced and directed runway shows for an array of the world's finest designers.

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After enjoying 18 years in Boca Raton, Fla., Wagner currently resides in Panama with her husband, John, and their daughter Jaye, where she continues her career as a writer.

She finds inspiration for her works through her daily experiences and world travel, continually infusing new cultures, languages and people into her writings.

"Boca Girl," her first major writing endeavor, tells the story of a small-town girl from Ohio living in Boca Raton, Fla., who captivates the city's upper echelon of advertising with her ingenuity and smile. She develops her career and perseveres over industry crazies.

In addition to her novel she also has a children's book, "Let's Play," based on friendship among Jack Russell terriers.

Both books are available on the Kindle edition at Amazon.com.

She is also working on her second novel, "Heaven's Breath," in addition to writing children's books.

Wagner is the daughter of John and Nancy Godby of Zanesville and the granddaughter of John and Roberta Mathews of Norwich.